### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Hebrew word **ʼAchbân**, represented by `{{H257}}`, is a proper name for an Israelite, **Ahban**. Its base definition is "brother (i.e. possessor) of understanding". This name is extremely rare, appearing only **1 time** in **1 unique verse** in the entire Bible.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The single appearance of **Ahban** occurs within a genealogical listing in 1 Chronicles. His identity is established solely through his parentage. The scripture states that Abishur's wife, Abihail, "bare him Ahban, and Molid" [[1 Chronicles 2:29]]. This places **Ahban** as the son of Abishur `{{H51}}` and Abihail `{{H32}}`, and the brother of Molid `{{H4140}}`, fixing his position within the historical records of the Israelite families.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context help define **Ahban's** place within his family unit:
* `{{H51}}` **ʼĂbîyshûwr** (Abishur): The name of **Ahban's** father, an Israelite whose name means "father of (the) wall" [[1 Chronicles 2:29]].
* `{{H32}}` **ʼĂbîyhayil** (Abihail): The name of **Ahban's** mother. Her name is defined as "father (i.e. possessor) of might" [[1 Chronicles 2:29]].
* `{{H4140}}` **Môwlîyd** (Molid): Identified as the brother of **Ahban**, born from the same parents. His name is defined as "genitor" [[1 Chronicles 2:29]].
* `{{H3205}}` **yâlad** (to bear): This verb establishes the direct lineage of **Ahban** from his mother, Abihail. The root meaning is "to bear young" or "to beget" and is used specifically "to show lineage" [[1 Chronicles 2:29]].
### Theological Significance
While **Ahban** himself is not a central theological figure, his inclusion in scripture highlights several important concepts:
* **Memorial of Individuality:** The use of **Ahban's** name `{{H8034}}` is consistent with the biblical practice of preserving names as "a mark or memorial of individuality" [[1 Chronicles 2:29]]. Each person listed in a genealogy is remembered as a distinct individual within God's people.
* **Importance of Lineage:** The verb "bare" `{{H3205}}`, which records **Ahban's** birth, is the same root used "to show lineage" and "declare pedigrees." This underscores the value placed on family lines and historical continuity in the biblical record.
* **Genealogical Framework:** The recording of individuals like **Ahban** helps form the vast genealogical framework of scripture. This same verb for birth, `{{H3205}}`, is also used in significant prophetic contexts, such as the promise that a virgin would "bear a son" [[Isaiah 7:14]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{H257}}` **ʼAchbân** is the name of a minor biblical figure, **Ahban**, mentioned once in a genealogy. His significance lies not in his actions but in his existence within the recorded lineage of Israel. His entry demonstrates the biblical principle of meticulously preserving individual names and family lines, which together form the historical tapestry of the scriptures. The name itself, meaning "brother of understanding," is recorded as a fact of his identity, preserved in the line of Abishur.
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